Precision is key in baking. Invest in quality measuring cups and spoons, and always measure your ingredients accurately, especially when it comes to flour, sugar, and leavening agents.
Familiarize yourself with the functions of different ingredients, such as flour, sugar, eggs, and fats. Knowing how they interact will help you troubleshoot and adjust recipes as needed.
Learn when to mix ingredients gently (as in muffins or cakes) and when to knead or fold (as in bread or pastry dough). Overmixing can lead to tough baked goods.